Preparing for Postpartum

Now that I’m in the last couple (or few!) weeks of pregnancy (hard to believe!!!), I am thinking some more about actually going in to labor (it occurred to me at the store yesterday it could happen there and then, which was a crazy thought), and postpartum. It seems like thoughts about that could go on forever, so I try to limit myself to concentrating on the basics: have a kick-butt delivery (OK, I know this is totally up in the air, but going in with that attitude I find necessary!), wash all of baby’s sheets (check!), blankets, clothes, etc. (check, check!), organize her things so I can actually locate them when needed (mostly check!), get her bassinet ready (check), pack my hospital bag (I’m getting there), finish the nursery–so close!!! Then there’s some “me” stuff in there like how I am going to stay healthy, energize, full, and nutritious after birth.

I have been looking for a way to incorporate my usual healthy lifestyle amidst the new hectic schedule. It’ll be even more important to feel as good as possible! It’s also lot more tempting to reach for comfort foods (or make the hubby run to get them!) when will power is at a minimum and baby is requiring most of my attention and energy. I’ve been thinking about what meals I want to make big batches ahead of time of and freeze (like chili), and my husband and I just did a big trip to Costco to stock up for a few weeks of nesting! The thing is, she’s the star of the show and the less I have to think about once she’s here the better. One thing my husband and I considered was getting one of those meal-delivery services to make it super easy. But those are expensive!!! And I can’t be too diet conscious since getting enough calories while breastfeeding is super important, which also means some good healthy snacks throughout the day in between meals to ensure I get enough fiber, vitamins, minerals, and fluids throughout the day. The body just went through a lot (and it still is)!!! Breastfeeding moms also need even more protein than usual, so I need something that will easily fill that area without eating all day long!

That’s when it occurred to me how nice it would be to find a good protein shake. I thought if I could just find a good one that contains all the super foods I normally like to stock up on anyway, as well as a good balance of vitamins and minerals and a good source of quality vegan protein, I’m in. It would make at least one meal (and even an additional snack) of the day a no-brainer and keep me feeling energized. I could also for-go having to add all the ingredients I’d want to add in a smoothie separately, not to mention time and money I could save not having to buy them all individually! But…easier said than done. I’m picky. Usually once I read a label on something I put it back down (because, well, I don’t eat much that even has a label on it in the first place).

Come to have it, just last week, I heard about Shakeology from two different friends. I’d never heard of it before so I looked it up and found they offered a vegan option (consisting of two flavors: chocolate and strawberry) and the ingredients were impressive! I was pleasantly surprised. I decided to order a sample pack so I can try it out (if I don’t like it, I’m back to where I started), so I will definitely update again once I have!

Adaptogens (which helps with stress and supports the immune system) like ashwaganda (an Ayurvedic herb that truly benefits anyone–men and women), astralagus, ginkgo, reishi, schisandra (so good for everyone too!) to name a few.

I want to feel good and I want our baby to feel good! A new schedule can be difficult no matter what it is, and when it’s around the clock I want to do the best I can at fueling up with the right things! I don’t think any sort of schedule should be a compromise for a healthy diet (and I have to practice what I preach, right?!).

And here’s one day before my 38 week mark (today!):

Did you have any go-to snacks or meals during postpartum/breastfeeding? I’d love to hear what worked for you!

Comments

Love This! So excited for you!! Sounds like you are going to do some fabulous prep work! Yes, you are absolutely starving postpartum and breastfeeding (imagine your hungriest pregnant x 100). I always have to eat every time I’m nursing ( even in the night) for awhile so I keep a good trail mix or snip chips ( they are my absolute favorite) next to the bed with a ton of water! And carrots and hummus are my go to snack if not in bed! Smart to stock the freezer! Can’t wait to see your little gal! You are going to love motherhood!

Thank you, Alex!!! There’s a lot to think about! I’m so glad you say so too! I never heard about the hunger factor until recently! I’ll have to check out those snip chips! Thank you for your kind words…and I can’t wait to post about my baby girl!

Hi! I'm Leah, thanks for stopping by! The field of health and wellness is my passion, so I have created a space to answer your health questions all while filling you in on my own personal journey along the way. I am a daughter, wife, sister, new mom, dog mommy, spinner, yogi, traveler, and chocolate lover. I am a certified Holistic Health Coach and if you have a question you want a real-girl answer to, just ask!
"Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live." - Jim Rohn